St Regis Florence: Fit For Princesses

St Regis Florence: Fit For Princesses!

Is St Regis Hotel in Florence the most beautiful hotel that I have ever been to? Possibly…

I remember flicking through a random issue of Conde Nast Traveller a couple of years ago, and coming across a small article, part of the Hot List 2012 series, pretty much raving about a newly opened St Regis Hotel in Florence. This hotel had just been re-opened following a $25-millon renovations of the historic Grand Hotel, originally a palazzo designed by Filippo Bruneslleschi, one of the foremost architects and engineers of the Italian Renaissance. Being, as some of you know, somewhat of an art history buff and a total addict of gorgeous hotels, I instantly added this particular hotel to my list of ‘Places I must visit in Florence during my return trip.’

Beginning of November this year I ended up going on an impromptu weekend trip to Florence, a little bored with London’s grey skies and incessant drizzle, and wanting to brush up on my Renaissance art history.

The very first day of our Florence getaway was a rainy day, to say the least. Well, it was actually raining cats and dogs, and meandering around the city, exploring, was certainly out of the question. And, a brilliant idea came to me… Why not go and hang out at the St Regis for the afternoon and evening, looking in every nook and corner of this historic and supposedly gorgeous hotel, and witness their word-famous champagne sobering ritual at 7 o’clock in the evening?!

St Regis has a great location on the north bank of River Arno on a quiet Piazza Ognissanti, a ten-minute leisurely stroll from the bustling centre of the city. The minute I set my foot through the door, my expectations were surpassed far and wide. The décor was beyond simply gorgeous; it seemed like the newly renovated interiors were already infused with Florence’s glorious and opulent past. The Winter Garden atrium was absolutely stunning and very spacious; this is where their famous bar and Michelin-starred restaurant, Restaurant Winter Garden by Caino, is located. From 7pm as well as participating in their champagne sabering ritual, you can also listen to live piano music.

The rooms are spacious, luxurious, and decorated with period furniture. Each room comes with a personal butler, who is at your service 24/7; he or she even packs and unpacks your bags! I tried out the bed, and it was possibly the most comfortable bed that I have ever laid on. In addition, the service was impeccable, and genuinely welcoming; the staff were gregarious, and willing to teach us about their home town.

St Regis Hotel is the epitome of Italian glamour; it embodies the country’s rich art historical past and everything else this city respresent. So, basically, if you are looking for a place to stay in Florence, St Regis is THE place to spend a night or two.